The European rabbit is a small mammal measuring approximately 40cm in length and weighting 1.2-2kg, the rabbit was an introduced species but is now a common naturalised species, they are abundant all year round. The European rabbit is often spotted grazing in long grass.

They were first introduced to the UK by the Normans for food and fur but are now a common sight for many. They live in large groups in underground burrow systems known as warrens. Female rabbits, called does, produce one litter of between three and seven babies every month during the breeding season. Rabbits are prey animal for stoats, buzzards, polecats and red foxes.

The rabbit is grey-brown in colour, with long ears and hind legs, and a fluffy white tail. It is smaller than the brown hare and does not have black tips on its ears.

This rabbit is herbivorous surviving on plants and weeds only. The european rabbit is an extremely sociable animal and thus they live in huge communities. They secrete a liquid from the glands under their chins, spreads it to mark their territory.

Rabbits are prolific breeders, within a few hours of reproducing the off-spring the female european rabbits’ mate again and can breed until the age of 6 years.

European rabbits are considered an invasive species as they cause great deal of damage to agriculture as well as the environment.